National Aeronautic Association Announces New Board of Directors
WASHINGTON, D.C. – December 16, 2025 – The National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the nation’s oldest aviation organization, announced the election of nine new members to its 2026 Board of Directors. The new directors were formally voted in at the NAA’s Annual Members Meeting held on December 12, 2025.
The new members join the ongoing NAA Board, which includes more than 50 of the U.S. aerospace industry’s thought leaders, pioneers, and change-makers from across the commercial, defense, academic, and nonprofit sectors. For the complete list of the 2026 NAA Board of Directors, please follow this link.
The incoming Board members bring diverse, high-level expertise spanning cutting-edge aerospace innovation, large-scale commercial aviation operations, strategic government relations, and impactful nonprofit leadership, strengthening the NAA’s position as the recognized voice of American aviation achievement. “We are excited to welcome this outstanding group of leaders to the NAA board,” said Sam Magill, NAA Vice-Chair and Nominating Committee Chair. “Their varied backgrounds and deep commitment to aviation will strengthen our organization as we continue our vital work of recognizing excellence and supporting the future of American aerospace.”
The NAA is responsible for sanctioning and certifying all American air records, and annually bestows the most prestigious awards in American aerospace, including the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and the coveted 113-year-old Robert J. Collier Trophy. Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO, commented on the appointments: “Our new board members bring fresh perspectives, strategic focus, and proven leadership that will significantly enhance our ability to serve our members and fulfill our core mission. Their expertise will be invaluable as we continue recognizing innovation and supporting the dynamic aviation and air sports communities.”
The newly elected individuals will officially begin their terms on the NAA Board of Directors on January 1, 2026:
- Ronce Almond – Managing Director, Head of International Government Affairs, American Airlines
- Jeanie Engle – Chief Information Officer, NASA (Ret.)
- Kate Fraser – Director, Regulatory and Federal Affairs, Zipline
- Steve Morrissey – Vice President, Regulatory and Policy, United Airlines
- Martin Palmaz – Non-profit Leader & Air Sports Athlete
- Cassie Redmyer – Director of Philanthropy, Pensacola State College Foundation
- Atif Saeed – Chief Executive Officer, Philadelphia International Airport
- Greg Stone – President, Academy of Model Aeronautics
- Katie Thomson – Former FAA Deputy Administrator/Founder of Duncan Park Strategies
The new directors’ expertise will join the 2026 Board’s focus on key areas vital to the successful execution of the NAA’s newly adopted 3-Year Strategic Plan. The 2026 Board will:
- Provide governance oversight to streamline core operations and drive the NAA’s Organizational Efficacy and Digital Transformation goal.
- Guide the NAA’s Modernization of Achievement Recognition process to ensure continued relevance in modern technological advancements, including Advanced Air Mobility and autonomous aviation, commercial spaceflight, and sustainable aviation.
- Contribute focus on the NAA Mission Clarity and Value Proposition to explicitly incorporate aerospace concepts, including sustainability, technological innovation, and workforce inspiration.
- Leverage their expertise to help identify and secure Financial Viability & Long-Term Growth for the NAA through diversified, long-term revenue streams, strengthening the NAA’s philanthropic base, and ensuring the fiscal sustainability required for consistent mission delivery.
About the National Aeronautic Association: The National Aeronautic Association is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization devoted to advancing the art, science, and sport of aviation in the United States. Founded in 1905, the NAA is the official national coordinator for air sports and the representative of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) in the United States. It is also the steward of the nation’s most prestigious aviation awards, including the Collier Trophy, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, and the Mackay Trophy.
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